The reaction of hydrated electron (e(aq)(-)) with 9-anthrylmethylammonium (AnCH(2)NH(3)(+)) cation to form the respective anthracene radical anion in aqueous solution has been studied by the method of pulse radiolysis. The rate constant of the reaction of e-with AnCH(2)NH(3)(+) is reported. It is demonstrated that the anthracene radical anion is unstable and undergoes further reactions. The spectra of transient intermediates, leading to the final reduction products, are presented. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.